Smart steps to ladder safety

Do you know the right ladder height for the job? Learn the safest ways to use ladders.

Ladder-related injuries result in thousands of trips to the ER each
year. Avoid becoming a statistic by taking extra care with ladders.

Whether you're cleaning out gutters, painting a ceiling or hanging
holiday lights, these pointers can help you stay safer.

Choose the right ladder for the job. "Purchase a ladder that gives you the height you
need," says Janet Rapp, executive director of the American Ladder Institute . Extension ladders
must extend three feet above the work surface. For safety, users must not step on the top two steps of
a step ladder. Also check the ladder's Duty Rating, which must be greater than your weight and that of
your supplies. Additionally, if you'll be working near electrical wires, steer clear of aluminum
ladders, which conduct electricity. Choose wood or fiberglass instead.

Perform regular inspections. Look for cracks, dents and loose, damaged or missing
hardware. Another red flag: Your ladder leans to one side when you set it up. Refer to this ladder inspection checklist for a
step-by-step list of how to perform an inspection.

Maintain your balance. Overreaching is a common user error, according to Rapp. "The
middle of your belt buckle should be centered between the side rails," she says. "Don't reach too far
to the left or right, because it could cause an imbalance." Rapp urges people to adhere to the Three
Points of Contact climbing rule: Always keep two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the
ladder. And, if your work area is just out of reach, always climb down and reposition the ladder to a
closer point.

Visit LadderSafety.org to view a multimedia training program about ladder safety, choosing
the right ladder and ladder care.

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The information in this article was obtained from various sources not associated with State Farm®. While we believe it to be reliable and accurate, we do not warrant the accuracy or reliability of the information. These suggestions are not a complete list of every loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. Nor is it intended to effect coverage under our policy. State Farm makes no guarantees of results from use of this information.